Despite being formidable predators themselves even posing a serious danger towards humans children,

Despite being formidable predators themselves even posing a serious danger towards humans children, a Kappa’s early life is quite fragile. Precocial at birth, most species of Kappas are completely independent and able to survive on their own immediately after hatching.

Returning to their ancestral nests, females will lay their eggs in large mounds made of leaf litter and other organic debris. These mounds are constructed within forests adjacent to ponds, lakes and streams. The forest  provides much needed coverage and hiding spots for the newly hatched chicks as Kappa chicks are a favorite of the Tengu and Kitsune.

All Kappa chicks are born with a “cranial embryonic sac” which houses the nourishing and vital water it needs for it’s sometimes week long journey. The cranial sac will provide the energy needed to fuel their little bodies across the obstacle laden forest floor. These cranial sacs can last up to a year and can also be used as a floating device during needed swimming breaks. Though the life expectancy of the cranial sac is dependent on many factors, many can be ruptured with in the first couple days of life so it is imperative that the chick finds it’s pond quickly.